Alyssa Napuri
Deputy Chief of Staff
Adam Tallabas
District Representative / Policy Analyst
Hello, everyone! Over the past few weeks, we’ve been saying goodbye to our summer interns. They’ve done such good work this summer – and I am excited to see what they’ll do in their futures. I am actively recruiting and interviewing for our Fall cohort – I am looking forward to meeting the new members of our wonderful team. On Sunday, I attended the Sierra Club Political Leadership Awards with the Supervisor! I enjoyed meeting leaders from the LA/OC area that are committed to environmental justice and action.
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Jonathan Davis
Policy Advisor
This week I briefed the Supervisor for multiple OCTA meetings and the Board of Supervisors meeting next Tuesday August 22, 2023. I also worked with the Supervisor and our team on preparing multiple appointments that will be voted on by the Board of Supervisors next week. Lastly, I worked on our Investigative Hearing on Climate Resiliency in Orange County that will be taking place on Wednesday August 30, 2023. Have a great weekend everyone!
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Cindy Tran-Chang
District Representative
Happy Friday everyone! This week, I worked on our upcoming Senior Summit scheduled for October 27, 2023. updated the two letters soliciting Orange County Partners and County agency interest in participating in the Resource Fair for the Supervisor’s Senior Summit in late October. We incorporated a link in the letter so interested partners may complete and RSVP their interest. Additional set up details will follow as the event nears. I am also adding to our growing list of County Partners so contact our office you know of any organizations that work with elderly communities.
We also met with the Soka Performing Arts Center team to clarify logistical and technical needs for the event. If you have any catering recommendations in the Fifth District that can manage 1000+ guests, please contact us at (714) 834-3550.
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Kimberlee Belli
Office Manager / District Representative
On August 16, 2023, I attended the Laguna Woods City Council Meeting. The council focused most of the meeting on Item #8.1 regarding proceeding with adopting regulations of cannabis retail sales was brought to the forefront, because of the number of public comments. Nearly 30 residents and business owners were able to speak and voice their opinions. Both sides had very valid reasons, for or against. After a vote of 3 to 2, Laguna Woods will move forward in adopting regulations that would permit cannabis retail sales businesses.
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Lauren Taylor
Summer Law Clerk
Hello, District 5! I just returned to the office after being gone for about a week. I spent last week prepping for my second year of law school. Thank you to the Supervisor for letting me continue working with her team between my classes. Since I returned, I have been working on items on the Agenda for next week's Board of Supervisors meeting. Specifically, I am spending most of my time on the Grand Jury Report on Group Homes with the goal of ensuring the County response adequately reflects all the work we do with group homes and the Supervisor's continual effort to make our communities safer.
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Rachel Carr
Policy Intern
This week was full of community engagement and productive teamwork. On Friday evening I joined a fellow Intern, Grace, at the summer Symphony on the Go located in Aliso Viejo. We gave out new office resources, including updated information on the supervisor and county numbers for residents. Then this weekend, I worked alongside Olivia at the 68th Annual Fiesta Music Festival in San Clemente. I enjoyed listening to the music, chatting with residents, and working with our team to have a successful event.
I wrapped up this week attending an OC Public Law Library meeting on behalf of the Supervisor to overview investment reports, budget adjustments, and informative matters pertaining to the Law Library Building. It is important that we sustain such a fantastic public resource by making it as accessible as possible. There are several workshops and clinics offered to the public at the Law Library including a consumer debt workshop and guardianship clinic. To view more resources offered, click here.
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Grace McNeill
Communications Intern
Hi, District 5! This week I worked on finalizing an op-ed I am writing alongside the Supervisor on gun violence. I care deeply about solving this issue and how gun violence affects our community. Having the opportunity to write this article has been a meaningful experience and I am very grateful to the Supervisor for giving me this opportunity. On Thursday, I attended a concert in the park featuring “Queen Nation” in the beautiful Dana Point! We had a wonderful time meeting so many members of our south county community, listening to some great music, and watching the sunset over Dana Point!
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This week is my last interning in the District 5 office! Some highlights were attending a meeting with Laguna Beach Mayor Bob Whalen, Councilmember Alex Rounaghi, and Supervisor Foley regarding how we can best support the city in their efforts to underground utilities, reduce wildfire and make transportation more accessible. Getting a behind the scenes view into how representatives produce results for their constituents was an unforgettable experience. Next week, I will move back to Loyola Marymount University where I am studying Political Science to start my Sophomore year. I have had such a great Summer meeting Team Foley, my fellow interns, and so many members of the community. I hope to see you soon!
Olivia Meis
Communications Intern
Nothing says summer like dinner al fresco with friends, and on Saturday, Supervisor Foley invited the whole office into her home for an end-of-summer pizza party celebration. We ate a lovely meal together and ended the night dancing to Led Zeppelin Live’s set at the OC Fair. If you’re looking for the opportunity to grow your resume, consider applying to Supervisor Foley’s Fall internship program! Learn all about how to join our team here.
On Sunday afternoon, Rachel and I staffed a booth at San Clemente’s 68th annual Fiesta Music Festival. I enjoyed sampling local Handel’s Homemade chocolate peanut butter brownie ice cream and meeting the friendly residents of San Clemente, of course!
Today, Rachel and I staffed a booth at the friendly neighborhood sunset cinema in the park! The office has a great relationship with local law enforcement.
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Luca Shakoori
Policy Intern
Hey District 5! This week I had the opportunity to work all over the place. On Sunday, I went to the San Clemente Fiesta Music Festival, alongside fellow staffer Lydia. At the festival, I had a lot of fun blowing bubbles, handing out merchandise, and talking to constituents. On Monday, I had the privilege to attend my first OCTA Board of Directors meeting. After having analyzed their policy for most of my internships, I appreciated being able to meet the people whose voices I heard so often. On Wednesday, I wrote some questions regarding zero emission vehicles for our upcoming Hearing on Climate Resiliency in Orange County. Sadly, next week is my last week, but interning at the county, especially working with Policy Advisor Jonathan Davis, has given me a rare insight into the last level of government and how all the policy turns into action. See you all next week!
Luca Fasulo
Policy Intern
Hi, District 5! I had a great week in the office, working on a few new projects and preparing for exciting upcoming events, such as our Climate Resiliency Hearing on August 30th. On Tuesday, I was inspired by watching the Supervisor testify in Sacramento in front of the California Senate Transportation Subcommittee on the topic of safeguarding the LOSSAN corridor and took initial steps in writing official invitations for our Orange County Climate Action Committee. On Thursday, I enjoyed commencing the planning process of our new back to school tours project, as well as working on an older research project regarding sand replenishment. My highlight of the week was attending a concert in the park in Dana Point, featuring “Queen Nation”. Nothing beats meeting the citizens of our district while enjoying great music and a fun atmosphere. See you next week!
Commission Updates
Hallie Jones, OC Parks Commissioner
At the August 3, 2023 OC Parks Commission meeting, the commissioners heard a presentation on the expansion and improvements at Mile Square Regional Park in Fountain Valley. On August 9th, the OC Parks Trails Subcommittee finalized recommended trail names for the newly opened Saddleback Wilderness area, located off of Santiago Canyon Road near Irvine Lake. The Saddleback Wilderness, once the site of a historic motocross race track, is now home to several types of endangered birds, reptiles, and plants. Open to the public only on specific access days, the new trails provide incredible views and amazing up-close looks at some of our most special habitats.
Health News
From the OC Health Care Agency
The OC Health Care Agency (HCA), Communicable Disease Control Division is reporting an increase in the percentage of positive COVID-19 PCR tests in Orange County residents over the past month. To minimize the severity of the recent increase, the HCA is reminding residents to take preventative actions to reduce the risk of severe illness or hospitalization. The recent increase resembles previous seasons where the disease activity rises during both the summer and winter months. Additionally, the age distribution of recent cases follows the pattern seen over the past year with the highest rates occurring among those 0-3 years of age and 75 years and older. Hospitalizations due to COVID-19 are not currently experiencing an increase. If you recently attended a large gathering/event, traveled, or came into close contact with someone who has COVID-19, self-monitor for symptoms and get tested.
- If you are sick, stay home and get tested.
- Wearing a well-fitting mask in crowded indoor spaces has been shown to be an effective intervention at decreasing the risk of acquiring or spreading COVID-19.
- All individuals should continue to practice good cough and hand hygiene.
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We strongly recommend all individuals 6 months and older stay up to date with their COVID-19 vaccinations. The current COVID-19 vaccine schedule, including for those who are moderately to severely immunocompromised, can be found here: Interim COVID-19 Immunization Schedule. To schedule a vaccine appointment, visit https://myturn.ca.gov/.
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Adults and Children at risk for progressing to severe COVID-19 disease should be assessed for appropriate COVID-19 treatment. For more information about COVID-19 treatment, go to https://covid19.ca.gov/treatment.
For more information on COVID-19, visit www.ochealthinfo.com/covid. Additionally, the HCA responds to community inquiries through the Agency’s Health Referral Line at 1 (800) 564-8448, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Clinicians are advised to remain informed of updated COVID-19 guidance: Link to CDC.
E-Bike Safety
E-scooters are the future of active, green public transportation! Riding behavior and safety are top priority, especially when it comes to helmets, sidewalks and speed.
If you’re under 18, please wear a fastened helmet. It’s also important to ride only in bike lanes, bike paths and bikeways. The only exceptions are when passing, when completing a turn and when avoiding hazards.
The e-scooter speed limit is 15 mph, regardless of a roadway’s higher speed limit. Don’t ride with a passenger, on the sidewalk or without your valid driver’s license. If you’re turning, dismount and walk your scooter. Treat crosswalks like sidewalks, hop off when crossing. Like driving any motor vehicle, operate by traffic rules. Remember to equip your scooter with lights and reflectors for nighttime safety.
OCTA Free Hikes & Equestrian Rides
Orange County is home to some of the most beautiful protected wilderness areas in the country. Experience and enjoy the natural landscape with OCTA's free docent-led hikes and equestrian rides!
Lace up your hiking shoes or saddle up your horse, and sign up for a free hike or equestrian ride today. Come see Orange County as it was yesterday, and as it will be tomorrow.
OC Animal Care
Through Kennel Connection, visitors can view ready-to-adopt pets right in their kennels every Wednesday and Saturday. No appointment needed to walk through. One-on-one visits available on a first come, first serve basis.
All Summer Long at OC Animal Care
OC Animal Care launched its comprehensive summer initiative, All Summer Long at OC Animal Care. This program aims to connect the community with shelter animals through numerous engaging events and pilot projects.
All Summer Long at OC Animal Care offers three distinct sections, ensuring there is something for everyone, including prospective pet owners, current pet owners and those looking to get involved with the shelter.
To learn more, visit the All Summer Long at OC Animal Care page.
Pet of the Week
Meet Pet of the Week, Reed!
Introducing Reed, a lovable 7-year-old boxer mix! This jolly boy is a social butterfly, always ready for playtime and eager to make new friends. Reed is an absolute star at Pooches on the Patio, where he has demonstrated the best manners when hanging out with both furry companions and humans! As an A+ student, he already knows how to sit! Reed loves his treats and would be a perfect candidate to learn more fun behaviors during some training!
At the end of an exciting day, Reed will happily curl up and rest for the next adventure! If you think Reed is your forever adventure buddy, call (714) 935-6848 and mention Animal ID A1815667.
Join Team Foley - DEADLINE EXTENDED
OC Workforce One-Stop: OPEN NOW!
Ready Set OC offers no-cost employment training for Orange County youth ages 14-24, including those with disabilities or IEP plans, former or current foster children, pregnant or parenting, offender/ex-offender, and those experiencing homelessness, including couch-surfing or at risk of homelessness. To find out more information, call the OC Business and Economic Recovery Call Center at (714) 480-6500 or text (657) 210-1295. Email info@readysetoc.com
Tax Filing Deadline Extended to October 16, 2023
The IRS announced an extension to change the filing and payment deadlines to October 16, 2023 for victims of severe winter storms, flooding, and mudslides in California. This extension applies to individuals and businesses in Orange County! Learn more here.
From the OC Treasurer
Secured Property Tax Collections Year-End Update:
As of June 30, 2023, 99.23% of secured property taxes has been received, a collection rate just slightly less than the collection rate of 99.27% received as of June 30, 2022 and just short of our record collection rate of 99.3%. For the first and second installments, 98.70% of secured property tax bills have been paid, just slightly lower than the 98.83% paid as of June 30, 2022. In addition, out of the 879,000 secured property tax bills mailed this year totaling $8.3 billion, 868,016 secured property tax bills have been paid versus 865,000 paid as of the same time last year. In addition, total payments received for both installments are up $482.8 million from the same time last year.
Financial Tip of the Week:
You may have heard about food delivery services like DoorDash or Uber Eats: you order through a restaurant’s website or a delivery service’s mobile app and drivers deliver your food. We’re hearing about a new scam targeting food delivery drivers and restaurants.
"Scammers posing as “support” from food delivery services are contacting delivery drivers and restaurants and trying to steal their personal and financial information.Scammers posing as “support” from food delivery services are contacting delivery drivers and restaurants and trying to steal their personal and financial information.
In one scenario, the scammer tells delivery drivers and restaurants they’re sending a free tablet or printer to handle food delivery orders. To do that, they say, they need to “verify” your phone number, email and login, Social Security number and bank account to send the equipment.
In another scenario, the scammer says they need the driver’s email or bank account because there’s a problem with an order, or they want to refund them money from a canceled order. After getting the driver or restaurant owner’s email, the scammer may ask for an email verification code...which you never want to share.
If you get requests like this, no matter where you work: Stop. Here’s how to avoid the scams.
- Don’t give your personal or financial information to someone who unexpectedly calls, texts, or emails you. They may be trying to steal from you.
- If you think the request is legitimate, contact the business directly. But use a phone number you know is real or a website or app you found yourself.
- Never share an email verification code with someone if you didn’t contact them first. Scammers are after your information and money. Sharing verification codes makes it easier for them to pretend to be you. Once they’re “you,” they have access to your accounts and can take your money.
Find out what to do if you paid a scammer or gave a scammer your personal information.
And if you spot these scams, tell the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. When you report a scam, you help the FTC and other law enforcement agencies stop scams.
OC Waste and Recycling
Are you an Orange County resident trying to dispose of bulky items like old refrigerators and appliances but not sure how? Start by checking with your local waste hauler. Many haulers offer free bulky item pickups. For information on local haulers and recycling coordinators visit OCLandfills.com/quick-links.
⏰Time for yardwork? OC Waste and Recycling offers free compost and mulch by appointment to OC residents! Schedule a pick up appointment in Irvine or San Juan Capistrano (free compost coming to Brea soon).
🌱Capistrano Greenery in San Juan Capistrano is expanding its hours - compost is now available six days a week, Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. by appointment.
🌱Free compost is also available at the Bee Canyon Greenery in Irvine, Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. by appointment.
For more information on Capistrano Greenery in San Juan Capistrano, Bee Canyon Greenery in Irvine and Valencia Greenery in Brea, along with details on small and large quantities of compost, visit OCLandfills.com/compost.
From the Anti-Defamation League
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Annual Audit of Antisemitism 2022 Each year, ADL tracks incidents of antisemitic harassment, vandalism, and assault in the US. 2023 data shows alarming increases across the board.
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Hate in the Golden State Over the past two years, California has dealt with a significant increase in extremist activity driven by a variety of factors. This report will explore the range of extremist groups and movements operating in California and highlight the key extremist and antisemitic trends and incidents in the state throughout 2021 and 2022. It also includes especially noteworthy events and incidents from 2023.
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ADL and GLAAD Report: Anti-LGBTQ+ Hate and Extremism Incidents, 2022-2023 Between June 2022 and April 2023, ADL and GLAAD documented at least 356 anti-LGBTQ+ extremist and non-extremist incidents motivated by hate across the United States. Incidents about anti-LGBTQ+ hate and extremism are an important part of a larger story about the heightened threats facing the LGBTQ+ community in the US today.
OC Parks is Hiring!
OC Parks Ranger
Park Rangers play an important role in protecting Orange County’s 60,000 acres of parks, open space and beaches. They work hard to keep parks safe, clean and enjoyable for 15 million visitors each year. Learn more here.
OC Parks Rangers are sworn peace officers and perform a wide variety of duties at different types of facilities, including regional and wilderness parks, camping parks and beaches. Candidates will be required to participate in a written test, oral interviews and a comprehensive background investigation that includes medical and physiological examinations. Successful candidates will join a high performing team that serves our communities seven days a week.
OC Parks Maintenance Workers
The Park Maintenance Worker I position performs routine unskilled and semiskilled grounds maintenance, landscape, and facility maintenance, along with repair work.
Mesmerica - OC Planetarium Show
A local production company based out of Orange County, Mesmerica, is currently hosting a show at the OCC Planetarium! Stop by for a chance to view the extremely relaxing 3D art and family show. Check out the following link to get 15% off tickets to the show!
The Sounds of Summer
Keep your eyes peeled for our booth at concerts in the park across the district this summer!
Our first Symphony on the Go! summer concert drew a fabulous crowd to Rancho Mission Viejo! Beautiful music is one of life’s great joys, now freely accessible to Orange County residents all summer. For more info: https://www.pacificsymphony.org/SOTG
BenefitsCal
Last month, Orange County officially switched over to a new benefits enrollment portal called BenefitsCal. This new website replaces the former portal, MyBenefitsCalWIN, as a new simple way for our residents to apply for, view and renew benefits for health coverage, food and cash assistance. Households interested in applying for benefits assistance can now create an account at www.BenefitsCal.com and submit their application or link their old MyBenefitsCalWIN case to their account. For more information about BenefitsCal, including new features and capabilities, click here.
Explore the Ocean from the Water!
Join the Ocean Institute for a 2-hour interactive kayak tour around the Dana Point harbor. Learn about the history of the harbor and its unique ecosystem from expert Naturalists. All experience levels are welcome!
Must be at least 3 years old to participate. Guests under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Learn more here.
Orange County Resources
UPDATED LINK: Alert OC
Sign up for AlertOC to get notified in case of emergency in Orange County. The mass notification system is designed to keep Orange County residents and businesses informed in the event of a time-sensitive emergency. YOU MUST OPT IN TO RECEIVE ALERTS. Register today at this link!
Equity in OC
Are you in charge of a grassroots organization? the Equity in OC initiative is releasing a POWER BUILDING FUND to provide smaller, grassroots organizations with the opportunity to build their infrastructure and/or capacity
Learn More: Here
Committee Appointments
If you have questions or comments that you'd like to share, in relation to the committees below, please email me at Katrina.Foley@ocgov.com
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